Wilaya of El Aaiún, May 1, 2026 (SPS) – The General Union of Saguia el-Hamra and Rio de Oro (UGTSARIO) workers commemorated today, Thursday, in the wilaya of El Aaiún, like other labor and trade union movements around the world, International Workers’ Day.
The occasion coincides with the 50th anniversary of the proclamation of the Sahrawi Republic, during which workers reaffirmed their determination to continue the struggle until independence is achieved.
In a statement to SPS on the sidelines of the celebration, the Minister of Public Service and Administration Promotion, Salek Baba Hassana, affirmed that celebrating Workers’ Day represents an opportunity to renew the Sahrawi people's commitment to the path of struggle for freedom and independence. He highlighted that this anniversary comes in an exceptional context, marking 50 years of resilience and resistance.
He stressed that the Sahrawi working class, along with all segments of the people, is commemorating this global occasion under special circumstances, as Sahrawis continue their struggle despite being dispersed between occupied territories and refugee camps. Nevertheless, they remain united around one goal: achieving their legitimate aspirations.
For his part, the UGTSARIO Secretary-General, Nafei Ahmed Mohamed, pointed out that this occasion is an opportunity to renew commitment to continuing the struggle for the liberation of both people and land from colonialism.
He referred to the exploitation of Sahrawi natural resources, with the involvement of foreign entities and companies in violation of international law, alongside attempts to alter the demographic composition of the occupied territories, leading to the marginalization of Sahrawi professionals and pushing them toward unemployment.
The event concluded with an emphasis that commemorating this day serves as a moment to honor Sahrawi workers and remember their history of struggle, thereby reinforcing efforts to achieve the Sahrawi people's aspirations for freedom and independence.
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